Baseball fans, get your sunscreen ready — the 2026 Cactus League season is about to take the field! From February 20 through March 24, Arizona’s spring training scene transforms the Valley of the Sun into the heartbeat of Major League Baseball. With 10 ballparks hosting 16 teams, this year’s lineup is bigger than ever — especially with the New York Yankees joining the league for the first time in Cactus League history.
Whether you’re here for game-day thrills, a weekend trip, or a family-friendly escape, here’s everything you need to know before heading out to the ballpark.
The Teams
You’ll find many of the league’s most iconic franchises sharpening their skills under Arizona’s blue skies. The 2026 Cactus League roster includes:
Arizona Diamondbacks, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Guardians, Colorado Rockies, Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers, Milwaukee Brewers, Oakland Athletics, San Diego Padres, San Francisco Giants, Seattle Mariners, Texas Rangers, and the New York Yankees.
Each team plays across the Greater Phoenix area, meaning fans can easily catch multiple games in a single weekend — no airport transfers required.
Ballparks and Fan Experiences
The Cactus League’s compact footprint is one of its biggest draws. From Sloan Park in Mesa to Surprise Stadium in the West Valley, every venue delivers intimate views and classic spring training charm. Many stadiums feature shaded seating, family zones, and grab-and-go food stands for quick bites between innings.
Insider tip: Camelback Ranch (home of the Dodgers and White Sox) offers one of the most scenic settings, with a desert-inspired lake and walking trails connecting the fields — a perfect pre-game stroll.
Ticket & Bag Tips
Tickets for most games start under $20, though prices vary by opponent and seat location. If you’re chasing hot matchups — like Yankees vs. Dodgers or Cubs vs. Giants — snag your seats early online.
Bag policies differ by venue, but most follow MLB’s clear-bag guidelines: one clear plastic bag (no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″) plus a small clutch or wallet. Folding chairs, tripods, and outside food are typically prohibited, though single-sealed water bottles are usually allowed.
Snacks, Sips & Local Flavor
Cactus League concessions go well beyond peanuts and Cracker Jack. Expect local brews, Sonoran-style hot dogs, and even gourmet street tacos depending on the venue. A few stadiums — like Scottsdale Stadium and Tempe Diablo — offer nearby post-game dining within walking distance, perfect for a sunny patio or cold local IPA.
Make It a Mini Getaway
Spring training isn’t just about baseball — it’s a lifestyle. Between games, enjoy desert hikes at Papago Park, spa stops in Scottsdale, and vibrant dining in Gilbert, Tempe, or Downtown Phoenix. Out-of-state visitors often turn their visits into quick escapes filled with pool time, golf, and sunshine.
Play Ball in Paradise
With more than a month of games, endless sunshine, and big-league excitement in small-town-style ballparks, the 2026 Cactus League season is shaping up to be a fan favorite. Whether you’re cheering for your team or just chasing the warmth, Arizona’s spring training offers every fan a front-row seat to baseball bliss.
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